Nimki

Nimki, also known as Namkeen, is a broad category of savory snacks originating from the Indian subcontinent. These snacks are typically made from flour, gram flour (besan), or lentils, and are seasoned with a variety of spices. The preparation methods for nimki are diverse, often involving frying or baking to achieve a crispy texture. Common ingredients include cumin, coriander, chili powder, turmeric, and ajwain (carom seeds).

Varieties of nimki are numerous and vary significantly by region and household. Some popular forms include mathri, a flaky, baked biscuit; sev, thin strands of fried chickpea flour; and shankarpali, a diamond-shaped, sweet or savory fried snack. Other well-known types include chiwda, a mixture of flattened rice and spices, and chakli, a spiral-shaped, deep-fried snack made from rice flour and lentil flour.

Nimki are often enjoyed as a tea-time snack or as an accompaniment to meals. They are also a staple during festivals and celebrations in India. The versatility in ingredients and preparation allows for a wide range of flavors and textures, catering to diverse palates. The term "namkeen" itself translates to "salty" or "savory" in Hindi, reflecting the primary taste profile of these snacks.